Euronews

Attacks across Iraq have killed at more than 50 people.

Local reports say there have been 34 deaths in Baghdad after gunmen opened fire on police patrols and car bombs killed residents in a number of areas, including the Karrada district - a mainly Shi’ite area of the capital.

Around 250 people have been wounded.

The violence has been taking place across the country, with explosions also happening in Kirkuk, Diyala, Tikrit, Baquba and Iskandariya.

After initial calm, recent weeks have seen an increase in attacks since the withdrawal of US troops in December.

Iraqi officials had predicted there would be attempts to stir sectarian tensions after American forces went home.